15 local businesses have started the four-month journey of ‘Cultivating New Skills’ as part of the pilot the South Australian Business Chamber – Cultivate Kangaroo Island Program, delivered in partnership with the Kangaroo Island Business Hub, and Department for Innovation and Skills.
Embarking on their first series of workshops last month, excited entrepreneurs from across the Island hit the ground running with sessions on Business Modelling, Business Planning and Digital Strategy, all fundamental components of the program, facilitated by Digital Resilience CEO Paul Dewsnap, who’s impressive resume demonstrates 27 years of senior leadership experience in businesses of all sizes, right across the globe.
The South Australian Business Chamber’s Jade Henschke, who manages the program says: “It has been an absolute pleasure developing this program. We have been focused on delivering content that will help local businesses not only get started but rebuild following a catastrophic two years. This program is supporting each participant to develop a robust business plan to achieve the goals for their business.”
“We have recruited local mentors; in addition to our existing program mentors, who all run successful businesses on Kangaroo Island; to work with the Cultivate KI participants. Mentors provide a wealth of knowledge from many years of experience of doing business on the Island.” Said Ms Henschke.
Kate Palmer who owns Dynamic Business Creative has partnered with the South Australian Business Chamber to mentor for the Cultivate program said: “After owning a business on Kangaroo Island for 15 years, I understand firsthand the unique factors that affect local businesses. It means a lot to support our community of business owners.”
Having recently developed her latest venture offering businesses support with their digital marketing, Kate felt she had a lot to offer the Cultivate KI program. “Nothing warms my heart more than to see someone’s business grow and flourish, as I know behind the business, is a local family employing other locals… so, it’s a ripple effect” said Ms Palmer.
With the launch of Cultivate KI already considered a success, the South Australian Business Chamber expects to spread further into South Australia’s regions, with some good news for the Adelaide Hills expected very soon.
